The TotaltrackTM video laryngeal mask: an evaluation in 300 patients.

The TotaltrackTM is a new video laryngeal mask, which combines a supraglottic airway with a videolaryngoscope. We evaluated the performance of this device in an observational study in 300 adult patients. The Totaltrack was inserted at the first attempt and the glottis seen in all cases. In 249 patients (83%; 95%CI 78.7-87.3%) the glottis was seen at the first attempt. Adequate ventilation and tracheal intubation were achieved in all patients. The median time to visualisation of vocal cords, to confirmation of ventilation and to successful tracheal intubation was 5 s, 13 s and 24 s, respectively. Nineteen patients (6.3%; 95%CI 3.55-9.05%) suffered minor complications, such as mucosal lesion or blood staining. The Totaltrack appears effective for airway management.

Intensive follow-up strategies improve outcomes in nonmetastatic colorectal cancer patients after curative surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: A wide variety of follow-up strategies are used for patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) after curative surgery. The aim of this study is to review the evidence of the impact of different follow-up strategies in patients with nonmetastatic CRC after curative surgery, in relation to overall survival and other outcomes. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS and ISI Web of Knowledge up to June 2014 was carried out. Eligible studies were all randomized clinical trials comparing the effectiveness of different follow-up strategies after curative resection in nonmetastatic CRC. RESULTS: Eleven studies with n = 4055 participants were included in a meta-analysis. A significant improvement in overall survival was observed in patients with more intensive follow-up strategies [hazard ratio = 0.75; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.66-0.86]. A higher probability of detection of asymptomatic recurrences [relative risk (RR) = 2.59; 95% CI 1.66-4.06], curative surgery attempted at recurrences (RR = 1.98; 95% CI 1.51-2.60), survival after recurrences (RR = 2.13; 95% CI 1.24-3.69), and a shorter time in detecting recurrences (mean difference = -5.23 months; 95% CI -9.58 to -0.88) was observed in the intervention group. There were no significant differences in the total tumor recurrences, nor in the mortality related to disease. CONCLUSION: Intensive follow-up strategies improve overall survival, increase the detection of asymptomatic recurrences and curative surgery attempted at recurrence, and are associated with a shorter time in detecting recurrences. This more intensive follow-up could not be associated with an improvement in cancer-specific survival nor with an increased detection of total tumor recurrences. Follow-up with serum carcinoembryonic antigen and colonoscopies are related to an increase in overall survival.

A randomized clinical trial to determine the effect of angiotensin inhibitors reduction on creatinine clearance and haemoglobin in heart failure patients with chronic kidney disease and anaemia.

BACKGROUND: Chronic kidney disease is a common comorbidity in elderly patients with heart failure. Evidence supports the use of angiotensin inhibitors for patients with heart failure. However, there is little evidence with which to assess the risk and benefits of this treatment in elderly patients with renal dysfunction. OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy and safety of angiotensin inhibitor reduction in patients with heart failure, chronic kidney disease and anaemia. STUDY DESIGN: Open randomized controlled clinical trial. SETTING: Complexo Hospitalario Universitario A Coruña (Spain). PATIENTS: Patients ≥ 50 years old, with heart failure, haemoglobin (Hb) < 12 mg/dl and creatinine clearance <60 ml/min/1.73 m(2) admitted to hospital, in treatment with angiotensin inhibitors. Informed consent and Ethical Review Board approval were obtained. INTERVENTION: A 50% reduction of angiotensin inhibitor dose of the basal treatment on admission (n = 30) in the intervention group. Control group (n = 16) with the standard basal dose. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Primary outcome was difference in Hb (gr/dl), creatinine clearance (ml/min/1.73 m(2) ) and protein C (mg/dl) between admission and 1-3 months after discharge. Secondary outcome was survival at 6-12 months after discharge. RESULTS: Patients in the intervention group experienced an improvement in Hb (10.62-11.47 g/dl), creatinine clearance (32.5 ml/min/1.73 m(2) to 42.9 ml/min/1.73 m(2) ), and a decrease in creatinine levels (1.98-1.68 mg/dl) and protein C (3.23 mg/dl to 1.37 mg/dl). There were no significant differences in these variables in the control group. Survival at 6 and 12 months in the intervention and control group was 86.7% vs. 75% and 69.3% vs. 50%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The reduction of the dose of angiotensin inhibitors in the intervention group resulted in an improvement in anaemia and kidney function, decreased protein C and an increased survival rate. TRIAL REGISTRATION: EudraCT: 2008-008480-10.

Spitzoid and non-spitzoid melanoma in children: a prognostic comparative study.

BACKGROUND: Spitzoid melanoma is a rare melanoma subtype often developing in children with unknown biological potential. OBJECTIVES: To compare the clinical and histopathological factors that influence the biological behaviour between spitzoid and non-spitzoid childhood melanoma, to establish if the spitzoid subset of melanoma has different prognosis than other types of childhood melanomas. METHODS: A comparison of the prognostic significance of clinical and pathological findings between 38 spitzoid (SM) and 99 non-spitzoid melanomas (N-SM) in children and teenagers younger than 18 years referred to UT - MD Anderson Cancer Center during the period 1992-2007. RESULTS: Children with SM were significantly younger than those with N-SM, had more frequently multiple melanocytic nevi, nodular melanoma subtype with vertical growth phase, high Breslow thickness and mitotic rate, positive sentinel lymph node biopsy and more advanced stage. N-SM had more often associated nevus. However, the mortality rate in the SM group was lower (5.9%) than in the N-SM group (12.0%). This study has two major limitations. Small size of both groups does not allow reaching statistically significant differences regarding mortality. Using metastatic potential as an inclusion criterion for SM could result in a sample selection bias of the most aggressive group of SM. CONCLUSIONS: Although SM patients had poorer prognostic factors than N-SM patients, slightly lower mortality rate was detected in the SM group. This less aggressive behaviour could be due to lower potential for widespread distant metastases than conventional melanomas or younger age of children with SM.

Psoriasis and cardiovascular risk. Assessment by different cardiovascular risk scores.

BACKGROUND: Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, very few studies determine cardiovascular risk by means of Framingham risk score or other indices more appropriate for countries with lower prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors. OBJECTIVES: To determine multiple cardiovascular risk scores in psoriasis patients, the relation between cardiovascular risk and psoriasis features and to compare our results with those in the literature. METHODS: We assessed demographic data, smoking status, psoriasis features, blood pressure and analytical data. Cardiovascular risk was determined by means of Framingham, SCORE, DORICA and REGICOR scores. RESULTS: A total of 395 patients (59.7% men and 40.3% women) aged 18-86 years were included. The proportion of patients at intermediate and high risk of suffering a major cardiovascular event in the next 10 years was 30.5% and 11.4%, respectively, based on Framingham risk score; 26.9% and 2.2% according to DORICA and 6.8% and 0% using REGICOR score. According to the SCORE index, 22.1% of patients had a high risk of death due to a cardiovascular event over the next 10 years. Cardiovascular risk was not related to psoriasis characteristics, except for the Framingham index, with higher risk in patients with more severe psoriasis (P = 0.032). CONCLUSIONS: A considerable proportion of patients had intermediate or high cardiovascular risk, without relevant relationship with psoriasis characteristics and treatment schedules. Therefore, systematic evaluation of cardiovascular risk scores in all psoriasis patients could be useful to identify those with increased cardiovascular risk, subsidiary of lifestyle changes or therapeutic interventions.

Estudio epidemiológico multivariable del paciente con fractura osteoporótica de fémur proximal / Multivariate epidemiological study of the patient with osteoporotic proximal femoral fracture

Objetivo: Revisar las fracturas de cadera en personas mayores de 50 años para valorar cómo afectan las comorbilidades asociadas al pronóstico. Material y método: Estudiamos 200 pacientes mayores de 50 años tratados de fractura de fémur proximal mediante un análisis retrospectivo de las variables, con el fin de valorar el pronóstico y la calidad de vida residual. Resultados: Observamos una tendencia, sin significación estadística, de a mayor edad del paciente, mayor probabilidad de que su fractura sea extracapsular. El índice de Singh no se correlacionó con el tipo de fractura. La carencia de vitamina D fue una constante. Hallamos una correlación entre la comorbilidad y el grado de insuficiencia renal (creatinina). No hubo incremento de estancia media en pacientes con mayor número de patologías. La demora quirúrgica no prolongó el tiempo de hospitalización postquirúrgica. Conclusión: El paciente osteoporótico con fractura de cadera ha de ser tratado de una manera multidisciplinar. Son muchos los factores que condicionarán su pronóstico y situación funcional final (AU)

Objective: To review hip fractures in patients over 50 years of age, with a view to assessing how they affect the comorbidities associated to the prognosis. Material and method: The study comprised a total of 200 patients over 50 years of age treated for proximal femoral fractures, based on a retrospective analysis of the variables, in order to define the prognosis and residual quality of life. Results: Increased patient age was found to be associated to an increased probability of extracapsular fracture, though statistical significance was not reached. The Singh index was not correlated to the type of fracture. Vitamin D deficiency was a constant finding. A correlation was observed between comorbidity and the degree of renal failure (creatinine). There was no increase in hospital stay in patients with a larger number of disorders. Surgical delay did not prolong postoperative hospital stay. Conclusion: Osteoporotic hip fracture patients require multidisciplinary management. Many factors condition the prognosis and ultimate functional outcome (AU)

Efficacy of a multimodal therapeutic exercise program in shellfish gatherers for the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders: a quasi-experimental study.

AIM: Aim of the present study was to determine the efficacy of a therapeutic exercise program to modify the muscular endurance of the trunk, the localization and intensity of musculoskeletal pain, fear-avoidance beliefs, perceived change after the treatment and satisfaction. METHODS: The present study has a quasi-experimental design (N.=19) with measurements taken before and after 16 sessions. The measures included: trunk extensors and flexors endurance, localization and intensity of pain and fear avoidance behavior. At the end of the program the perception of changes at musculoskeletal level and satisfaction were also obtained. Statistical analysis was carried out using Student's T-test for paired data, Wilcoxon's test and McNemar's test. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee and the patients gave their informed consent. RESULTS: The 94% were women with a mean age of 58 years. The 42.1% had musculoskeletal pain, with the most frequent locations being the lower back, neck and shoulder regions. A significant increase in the muscular endurance of the trunk extensors and flexors (in seconds) was detected; (67.1±42 vs. 96.1±55.2) (P=0.005) and (28.2±18.3 vs. 67.8±41.1) (P=0.000), respectively. A decrease that was close to statistical significance (P=0.19) was observed in the score on the FABQ (53.9±18.8 vs. 48±19.7). The prevalence of lower back pain (84.2% vs. 47.4%; P=0.016) and upper back pain (42.1% vs. 10.5%; P=0.031) decreased significantly after the treatment. The 78.4% had improved and 89.5% were very satisfied with the treatment. CONCLUSION: The treatment increased the muscular endurance of both the trunk extensors and flexors. A decrease in the prevalence of lower back, upper back and neck pain was observed. The perceived change and satisfaction were high.

Prognostic and developmental factors in patients receiving liver transplant due to hepatocellular carcinoma: one center's experience in the north of Spain.

BACKGROUND: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most frequent types of tumor. The aim of this study was to determine the survival of patients who had received liver transplants as a result of the disease. METHODS: This observational follow-up study included 150 patients who received liver transplantations from June 1994 to December 2007. The study considered epidemiological and staging variables, tumor descriptions, and follow-up variables. We employed Kaplan-Meier methodology together with a Cox multivariate regression analysis. RESULTS: The incidence of tumor relapse was 13.3%, with survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years of 89.3%, 73.1%, and 61.4%, respectively. Variables that showed an independent effect to predict mortality were the degree of histological differentiation and of macrovascular invasion. Patients with poorly differentiated HCC had a 4.03 fold (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.61-10.06) greater possibility of dying. Macrovascular involvement increased the risk of death (relative risk = 2.23), an effect that was at the limit of significance (95% CI 0.99-5.04). CONCLUSIONS: The survival rate was consistent with the literature. Poor tumor differentiation and macrovascular involvement were independent predictors of mortality.

Influence of early graft function after renal transplantation and its impact on long-term graft and patient survival.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether early graft function after transplantation impacted graft and patient survivals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 1981 and 2008, we performed 1308 renal transplantations. Poor early graft function was defined as a Cockroft-Gault glomerular filtration rate<60 mL/min or less at 1 and 3 months posttransplant. Patients who lost their kidney or died within the first 12 months after transplantation were excluded from the study. Multivariate statistical analysis used Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS: Of the 1308 patients 994 (78.8%) displayed poor early graft function at 1 month after transplantation (glomerular filtration rate<60 mL/min), while 268 (21.2%) showed normal function (glomerular filtration rate≥60 mL/min). The 2- and 6-year graft survival rates among the poor early graft function group were 96.8% and 85.8%, respectively, while those among the control group were 97.0% and 88.3%, respectively. The 2- and 6-year patient survival rates in the poor early graft function were 98.5% and 89.8% versus 98.9% and 96.3% in the control group. Similar results were observed at 3 months posttransplant. Controlling for patient age, donor age, HLA-AB and -DR mismatches, cold ischemia time, acute rejection episodes, cyclosporine therapy, and waiting time for transplantation, we did not observe early graft function to be a risk factor for graft survival or patient survival. Glomerular filtration rate at 2, 5, and 6 years after kidney transplantation was significantly lower in the poor early graft function than in the control group. CONCLUSION: This study suggested that the quality of early graft function had no significant effect on graft and patient survival rate, but did have a significant influence on long-term renal function.

[Relationship of preoperative PSA velocity to histopathological findings in the surgical specimen and survival after radical prostatectomy]. / Relación de la velocidad preoperatoria de PSA con los hallazgos histopatológicos de la pieza quirúrgica y la supervivencia tras prostatectomía radical.

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether PSA velocity (PSV) is related to pathological findings in surgical specimen, biochemical recurrence-free survival (BRFS), cancer-related survival (CRS), and overall survival (OS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective and prospective observational cohort study on 265 patients with prostate cancer (PCa) who underwent radical prostatectomy (RP) from 2000 to 2008. PSAV was calculated arithmetically and by linear regression analysis, using PSA values in the year prior to diagnosis. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to detect variables associated to extracapsular disease (ECD). Variables related to BRFS, CRS, and OS were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier methodology (PSAV 3 ng/mL/year) and a multivariate Cox regression analysis. The ability of PSA velociy to predict BRFS, CRS, and OS was evaluated by c-index. RESULTS: Median follow-up was 56.16 months (9.14-106.75). Median PSAV was 0.65 and 0.63 ng/ml/year using the arithmetic and regression methods respectively. ECD was detected in 74 specimens (27.92%), and biochemical recurrence in 50 patients (18.87%). Cancer-related mortality was seen in 4 patients (1.52%) and overall mortality in 16 (6.08%). In the multivariate analysis, PSAV was not related to ECD. PSAV was an independent predictor for BRFS (RR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.02-1.13, p=0.008), CRS (RR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.00-1.50, p=0.048), and OS (RR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.18-1.55, p<0.001) in the multivariate Cox regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS: PSAV is a preoperative parameter that predicts for BFRS, CRS, and OS in patients undergoing RP. No association was found between PSA velocity and presence of ECD.

Relación de la velocidad preoperatoria de PSA con los hallazgos histopatológicos de la pieza quirúrgica y la supervivencia tras prostatectomía radical / Relationship of preoperative PSA velocity to histopathological findings in the surgical specimen and survival after radical prostatectomy

Objetivo: Determinar si la velocidad de antígeno prostático específico (PSAV) se relaciona con los hallazgos histopatológicos de la pieza, la supervivencia libre de recidiva bioquímica (SLRB), la supervivencia cáncer-relacionada (SCR) y la supervivencia global (SG). Material y métodos: Estudio observacional de cohorte retrospectivo y prospectivo formado por 265 pacientes con cáncer de próstata a los que se practicó prostatectomía radical (PR) entre 2000–2008. La PSAV fue calculada de forma aritmética y mediante regresión lineal, utilizando valores de antígeno prostático específico del año previo al diagnóstico. Se realizó un análisis multivariado de regresión logística para detectar variables asociadas a enfermedad extracapsular (EEC). Las variables asociadas a SLRB, SCR y SG fueron estudiadas mediante análisis de Kaplan-Meier (PSAV≤3 vs. >3ng/ml/año) y multivariado de regresión de Cox. La capacidad de PSAV para predecir SLRB, SCR y SG fue determinada mediante c-index. Resultados: La mediana de seguimiento fue 56,16 meses (9,14–106,75). La mediana de PSAV fue 0,65 y 0,63ng/ml/año con los métodos aritmético y de regresión, respectivamente. Se detectó EEC en 74 casos (27,92%) y recidiva bioquímica en 50 (18,87%). Se observó mortalidad cáncer-relacionada en 4 pacientes (1,52%) y mortalidad global en 16 (6,08%). En el análisis multivariado, la PSAV no se relacionó con EEC, asociándose de forma independiente con la SLRB (RR: 1,06; IC 95%: 1,02–1,13; p:=0,008), SCR (RR: 1,22; IC 95%: 1,00–1,50; p=0,048) y SG (RR: 1,35; IC 95%: 1,18–1,55; p<0,001). Conclusiones: La PSAV es una variable preoperatoria que predice SLRB, SCR y SG en los pacientes tratados mediante PR. No se observa asociación entre PSAV y la presencia de EEC (AU)

Objective: To assess whether PSA velocity (PSV) is related to pathological findings in surgical specimen, biochemical recurrence-free survival (BRFS), cancer-related survival (CRS), and overall survival (OS). Materials and methods: A retrospective and prospective observational cohort study on 265 patients with prostate cancer (PCa) who underwent radical prostatectomy (RP) from 2000 to 2008. PSAV was calculated arithmetically and by linear regression analysis, using PSA values in the year prior to diagnosis. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to detect variables associated to extracapsular disease (ECD). Variables related to BRFS, CRS, and OS were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier methodology (PSAV ≤3 vs. >3ng/mL/year) and a multivariate Cox regression analysis. The ability of PSA velociy to predict BRFS, CRS, and OS was evaluated by c-index. Results: Median follow-up was 56.16 months (9.14–106.75). Median PSAV was 0.65 and 0.63ng/ml/year using the arithmetic and regression methods respectively. ECD was detected in 74 specimens (27.92%), and biochemical recurrence in 50 patients (18.87%). Cancer-related mortality was seen in 4 patients (1.52%) and overall mortality in 16 (6.08%). In the multivariate analysis, PSAV was not related to ECD. PSAV was an independent predictor for BRFS (RR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.02–1.13, p=0.008), CRS (RR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.00–1.50, p=0.048), and OS (RR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.18–1.55, p<0.001) in the multivariate Cox regression analysis. Conclusions: PSAV is a preoperative parameter that predicts for BFRS, CRS, and OS in patients undergoing RP. No association was found between PSA velocity and presence of ECD (AU)

Complications of ambulatory major dermatological surgery in patients older than 85 years.

BACKGROUND: During the last decades, the progressive ageing of the population has resulted in a rising skin cancer incidence. Although previous studies detected no higher morbidity for dermatological surgery in senior patients, their exclusion from optimal surgical treatment remains as a common clinical practice. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the diseases treated with ambulatory major dermatological surgery, the surgical morbidity and the associated variables in ≥ 85 year-old patients. PATIENTS/METHODS: This is an observational study on 247 successive patients older than 85 years of age who underwent dermatological surgery in a single Ambulatory Mayor Surgery unit. Studied variables were age, gender, tobacco-alcohol exposure, co-morbid medical conditions, blood-thinning medication, antibiotic prophylaxis, number of lesions, location, histopathological diagnosis, area of skin removed, surgical technique, type of flap, length of surgery, entrance order, suture thread, surgical complications and need of post-operative admission. RESULTS: The most common site was head and neck (82.7%). The most frequent tumour was basal cell carcinoma (45.1%), followed by squamous cell carcinoma (38.7%) and melanoma (8.3%). Direct closure was the most frequent procedure (55.6%). Of the total number of patients, 7.9% of patients suffered complications; necrosis followed by cellulitis were the most frequent. Length of surgical procedure, area of skin removed and reconstruction with skin-graft were significantly related to higher risk of post-operative complications. CONCLUSIONS: No intra or post-surgical mortality or life-threatening local complications were detected. Most post-surgical local complications appeared after wide excisions and complex reconstruction techniques that prolonged the length of the surgery.

[Clinical course and features of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome in a general hospital]. / Manifestaciones y curso clínico del síndrome de abstinencia alcohólica en un hospital general.

INTRODUCTION: Despite its frequency and high clinical burden, few studies have analyzed the clinical features of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome in a hospital setting. Our purpose was to describe its manifestations and clinical course in a general hospital. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients with a diagnosis of alcohol withdrawal since January 1983 to December 2003, according to the revised fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria, at the Xeral-Calde General Hospital in Lugo, were studied. Clinical and biochemical data at admission were collected, as well as those referred to the clinical course and complications. RESULTS: 539 episodes in 436 patients were included. Mean age was 45 (standard deviation: 12), and 91,3% were men. Abstinence was the reason for admission in 62,3%. 71,1% had a diagnosis of delirium tremens during their stay. Hallucinations were present in 59,7%, and convulsions (most of them generalized) in 41%. Patients with delirium tremens had greater elevations in temperature, heart rate and blood pressure, as well as more convulsions than minor withdrawal cases. Cirrhosis was present in 10%. The admission rate to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) was 37,8% (95% confidence interval [95%IC]: 33,1-37,8). Of these, 69,9% needed mechanical ventilation. Mortality rate was 6,6% (95%IC: 4,2-9,1). 62% of patients died after admission in the ICU. CONCLUSION: The majority of complications related to the alcohol withdrawal syndrome in a hospital setting develop in patients with delirium tremens. They are especially related to the rate of admissions to the ICU and the use of mechanical ventilation.

[Importance of PSA velocity and PSA density in the prediction of prostate cancer in TURP or open prostatectomy specimen of patients with previous negative prostate biopsy]. / Importancia de la velocidad y la densidad de PSA en la predicción de cáncer de próstata en la pieza de RTU o adenomectomía de pacientes con biopsia prostática previa negativa.

PURPOSE: To determine variables related to the finding of prostate cancer (PC) in patients who underwent surgery following at least one negative prostate biopsy (PB). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study of 170 patients who underwent transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or open prostatectomy between 1999 and 2007, following one or more negative PB sets. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was carried out in order to determine variables related to the finding of PC. The predictive capacity of PSA, PSA-density and PSA-velocity was assessed by means of ROC curves and the area under the curve (AUC). Sensitivity, specificity and predictive values were determined for several PSA-density and PSA-velocity cut-off points. RESULTS: Open prostatectomy was carried out on 104 patients (61.18%) and TURP on 66 (38.82%). PC was detected in the surgical specimen of 16 patients (9.41%). Variables associated with the finding of PC in the surgical specimen were PSA-density (OR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.22-6.64; p: 0.007) and PSA-velocity (OR: 2.87; 95% CI: 1.60-5.12: p < 0.001). The AUCs were 0.746, 0.793 and 0.832, for PSA, PSA-density and PSA-velocity, respectively. The most sensitive PSA-density and PSA-velocity cut-off points in detecting PC were 0.15 and 1 ng/ml/year, respectively. Patients without PC showed a median PSA reduction of 9.35 ng/ml (-2.40 - 35.40), following surgery. CONCLUSIONS: PSA-density and PSA-velocity in particular, allow for the prediction of the presence of PC in the TURP or open prostatectomy specimen of patients with previously negative PBs. Diagnostic TURP could prove useful in patients with clinical suspicion of PC, susceptible to curative treatment, with PSA-velocity > 1l ng/ml/year and one or more negative saturation biopsies.

Manifestaciones y curso clínico del síndrome de abstinencia alcohólica en un hospital general / Clinical course and features of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome in a general hospital

Introducción. A pesar de la elevada frecuencia delsíndrome de abstinencia alcohólica en el ámbitohospitalario y su gran impacto clínico, pocos estudioshan analizado sus características. El objetivo de esteestudio fue describir su forma de presentación yevolución clínica en un hospital general.Pacientes y métodos. Se estudiaron los enfermosdiagnosticados de síndrome de abstinenciaalcohólica según los criterios de la cuarta ediciónrevisada del Manual diagnóstico y estadístico delos trastornos mentales, en el ComplexoHospitalario Xeral-Calde de Lugo entre enero de1987 y diciembre de 2003. Se registraron loshallazgos clínicos y analíticos presentes en elmomento del ingreso, así como la evolución clínica ylas complicaciones sufridas durante su estancia.Resultados. Se registraron 539 episodios en 436pacientes. La edad media fue de 45 años (desviaciónestándar: 12), y el 91,3% eran hombres. Laabstinencia fue el motivo de ingreso en el 62,3% delos casos. Al final del ingreso hospitalario secontabilizó un 71,1% con síndrome mayor deabstinencia. El 59,7% presentó alucinaciones y el41%, crisis epilépticas, casi en su totalidad de tipogran mal. Los pacientes con delirium tremenspresentaron mayores elevaciones de temperatura,frecuencia cardíaca y tensión arterial, así como unamayor incidencia de crisis. El 10% presentaba cirrosis.La tasa de traslados a la Unidad de CuidadosIntensivos (UCI) fue del 37,8% (intervalo de confianzaal 95% [IC95%]: 33,1-37,8). De éstos, el 69,6%precisó una intubación orotraqueal. La tasa demortalidad fue del 6,6% (IC95%: 4,2-9,1). El 62% delos fallecimientos se produjo tras su ingreso en la UCI.Conclusión. Las complicaciones relacionadas con elsíndrome de abstinencia alcohólica en un hospitalgeneral se concentran en los casos de deliriumtremens, especialmente en los pacientes trasladadosa la UCI y conectados a ventilación mecánica

Introduction. Despite its frequency and high clinicalburden, few studies have analyzed the clinicalfeatures of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome in ahospital setting. Our purpose was to describe itsmanifestations and clinical course in a generalhospital.Patients and methods. Patients with a diagnosis ofalcohol withdrawal since January 1983 to December2003, according to the revised fourth edition ofthe Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of MentalDisorders criteria, at the Xeral-Calde GeneralHospital in Lugo, were studied. Clinical andbiochemical data at admission were collected, aswell as those referred to the clinical course andcomplications.Results. 539 episodes in 436 patients wereincluded. Mean age was 45 (standard deviation: 12),and 91,3% were men. Abstinence was the reasonfor admission in 62,3%. 71,1% had a diagnosis ofdelirium tremens during their stay. Hallucinationswere present in 59,7%, and convulsions (most ofthem generalized) in 41%. Patients with deliriumtremens had greater elevations in temperature,heart rate and blood pressure, as well as moreconvulsions than minor withdrawal cases. Cirrhosiswas present in 10%. The admission rate to theIntensive Care Unit (ICU) was 37,8% (95%confidence interval [95%IC]: 33,1-37,8). Of these,69,9% needed mechanical ventilation. Mortality ratewas 6,6% (95%IC: 4,2-9,1). 62% of patients diedafter admission in the ICU.Conclusion. The majority of complications relatedto the alcohol withdrawal syndrome in a hospitalsetting develop in patients with delirium tremens.They are especially related to the rate of admissionsto the ICU and the use of mechanical ventilation

Importancia de la velocidad y la densidad de PSA en la predicción de cáncer de próstata en la pieza de RTU o adenomectomía de pacientes con biopsia prostática previa negativa / Importance of PSA velocity and PSA density in the prediction of prostate cancer in TURP or open prostatectomy specimen of patients with previous negative prostate biopsy

Objetivo: Determinar variables relacionadas con el hallazgo de cáncer de próstata (CaP) en pacientes sometidos a cirugía prostática tras al menos una biopsia prostática (BP) negativa. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de 170 pacientes sometidos a resección transuretral de próstata (RTUP) o adenomectomía entre 1999 y 2007, después de una o más BPs negativas. Se realizó un análisis multivariado de regresión logística para identificar variables relacionadas con la presencia de CaP. La capacidad predictiva de PSA, PSA densidad y PSA velocidad se determinó mediante curvas ROC y su área bajo la curva (ABC). Se analizó la sensibilidad, especificidad y valores predictivos para diversos puntos de corte de PSA densidad y PSA velocidad. Resultados: Se realizó adenomectomía en 104 pacientes (61,18%) y RTUP en 66 (38,82%). Se detectó CaP en la pieza quirúrgica de 16 pacientes (9,41%). Las variables asociadas al hallazgo de CaP en la pieza quirúrgica fueron PSA densidad (OR:1,47;95% IC:1,22-6,64; p:0,007) y PSA velocidad (OR:2,87;95% IC:1,60-5,12; p<0,001). Las ABC ROC fueron 0,746, 0,793 y 0,832, para PSA, PSA densidad y PSA velocidad, respectivamente. Los puntos de corte de PSA densidad y PSA velocidad con mayor sensibilidad y especificidad en la detección de CaP fueron 0,15 y 1 ng/ml/año, respectivamente. Los pacientes sin CaP mostraron una reducción mediana de PSA de 9,35 ng/ml (-2,40 – 35,40), después de la cirugía. Conclusiones: El PSA densidad y el PSA velocidad en particular, permiten predecir la presencia de CaP en la pieza de RTUP o adenomectomía, de pacientes con BPs previas negativas. La RTUP diagnóstica podría ser recomendada en pacientes con sospecha clínica de CaP, susceptibles de tratamiento curativo, con PSA velocidad >1ng/ml/año y una o más biopsias de saturación previas negativas (AU)

Purpose: To determine variables related to the finding of prostate cancer (PC) in patients who underwent surgery following atleast one negative prostate biopsy (PB).Materials and methods: A retrospective study of 170 patients who underwent transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)or open prostatectomy between 1999 and 2007, following one or more negative PB sets. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was carried out in order to determine variables related to the finding of PC. The predictive capacity of PSA, PSA-density and PSA-velocity was assessed by means of ROC curves and the area under the curve (AUC). Sensitivity, specificity and predictive values were determined for several PSA-density and PSA-velocity cut-off points. Results: Open prostatectomy was carried out on 104 patients (61.18%) and TURP on 66 (38.82%). PC was detected in the surgical specimen of 16 patients (9.41%). Variables associated with the finding of PC in the surgical specimen were PSA-density(OR:1.47;95% CI:1.22-6.64; p:0.007) and PSA-velocity (OR:2.87;95% CI:1.60-5.12; p<0.001). The AUCs were 0.746, 0.793 and 0.832, for PSA, PSA-density and PSA-velocity, respectively. The most sensitive PSA-density and PSA-velocity cut-off points indetecting PC were 0.15 and 1ng/ml/year, respectively. Patients without PC showed a median PSA reduction of 9.35 ng/ml (-2.40– 35.40), following surgery. Conclusions: PSA-density and PSA-velocity in particular, allow for the prediction of the presence of PC in the TURP or open prostatectomy specimen of patients with previously negative PBs. Diagnostic TURP could prove useful in patients with clinical suspicion of PC, susceptible to curative treatment, with PSA-velocity >1ng/ml/year and one or more negative saturation biopsies (AU)

Incidence of cardiovascular events in renal transplant recipients and clinical relevance of modifiable variables.

INTRODUCTION: The aims of this study were to quantify the incidence of cardiovascular events and identify the clinical relevance of modifiable variables. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The 1729 patients who underwent renal transplantation from 1981 to 2004 were evaluated in an observational, prospective follow-up study with no exclusions. A cardiovascular event was defined as the presence of ischemic cardiac disease (chest pain-myocardial infarction), cardiac insufficiency, arrhythmia (auricular fibrillation), peripheral vascular disease, or cerebrovascular accident. A survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method. A Cox regression analysis was applied. Having identified the predictive variables of cardiovascular events, the population attributable fraction (PAF) and the etiological fraction (EF) were estimated. A risk score was calculated using Cox regression coefficients. RESULTS: The accumulated incidence of cardiovascular events was 22.2%, with an incidence rate of 468.6 x 10,000 follow-up years. From the Cox regression model, the variables with an independent effect close to statistical significance to predict cardiovascular events were as follows: recipient age (RR = 1.05), smoking at the time of the transplantation (RR = 2.1), left ventricle hypertrophy during follow-up (RR = 2.4), prior diabetes mellitus, and obesity (body mass index >or=30). At the time of transplantation, 41.7% were smokers. During follow-up, a clear difference was observed in the incidence rates of cardiovascular events between smokers and nonsmokers. Similar phenomena were observed for left ventricle hypertrophy and obesity. The resulting scores ranged between 0 and 5. The area under the ROC curve of the score for the prediction of cardiovascular events was 0.74. CONCLUSION: The incidence of cardiovascular events was consistent with the literature. A series of modifiable variables of major clinical relevance exist to decrease the frequency of cardiovascular events following renal transplantation.

El programa de Educación Maternal en el Sistema Público de Salud en Galicia / The Maternal Education Programme in the Public Health System in Galicia

Objetivos. Los objetivos del presente estudio han sido conocer la presión asistencial de los cursos de Educación Maternal en los centros de salud gallegos, así como su temporalización y las actividades teóricas y prácticas realizadas. Material y métodos. Estudio observacional de prevalencia mediante cuestionario autoadministrado y autofranqueado de todos los Centros de Salud de la Comunidad Autónoma de Galicia que disponen de matrona. El análisis estadístico ha consistido en un estudio descriptivo de todas las variables incluidas en el estudio. En el 81,5 % de las encuestas recibidas se refiere la existencia del Programa de Educación Maternal. En el 93,4 % de los casos las mujeres que inician el programa lo finalizan. Los contenidos teóricos del programa más frecuentemente desarrollados han sido cuidados en el recién nacido, lactancia y cuidados en el puerperio que están presentes en el 100 % de los casos; y el menos frecuentemente abordado ha sido medicación y embarazo. Los contenidos prácticos del programa más frecuentemente desarrollados han sido las técnicas de respiración (100 %), seguida de la preparación física preparto (98,1 %); y el menos desarrollado ha sido la recuperación física posparto. El mes de gestación en el que se inició el programa tuvo como mediana 6,5. La duración del programa tuvo como mediana 10 semanas. En el 100 % de las encuestas recibidas se indica que el responsable del programa es la matrona. Según las respuestas recibidas, existe una buena implementación del Programa de Educación Maternal. En cuanto a los contenidos teóricos y prácticos abordados en el período preparto, se observa una gran homogeneidad entre las distintas Unidades, abarcando gran variedad de aspectos. Parece que se enfatiza el programa preparto respecto al posparto, que cuenta con un menor número de horas semanales y de semanas de duración

Aims of the study. The goals of this study have been to know the number of patients who participate in the Maternal Education Program in the Health Centers in Galicia. Timetable, theoretical and practical activities of the program have been analised. Subject and methods. transversal descriptive study. We have sent by post a survey to all the health centers of Galicia which have midwifes. The statistic analyses has been about a descriptive study of all the variables included in the questionnaire. The maternal Education Program exists in the 81.5 % of the replies we have received. In the 93.4% of the cases, the women both started and finished the program. The theoretical contents more frequently developed have been the medical care for newborn, breast-feeding and medical care in the postpartum period, which are present in the 100 % of the cases. The less frequently developed has been the medication and pregnancy. The practical contents of the program more frequently developed have been the breathe technics (100 %) followed by physical training during pregnancy (98.1 %). The less developed topic has been the physical training after delivery. The month of pregnancy when the programme begun had as median 6.5. The lenght of the program had as median 10 weeks. The 100 % of the replies showed that the person in charge of the programme was the midwife. According to the replies we have received, there is a high development of the Maternal Education Program. Related to the theoretical and practical contents taught during the pregnancy, there is so much homogeneity about several aspects among the different centers. It seems to be more emphasis in the prepartum compared to the postpartum program, which has less number of hours per week, and also less weeks of length

[The utility of artificial neural networks in the prediction of prostate cancer on transrectal biopsy]. / Utilidad de las redes neuronales artificiales en la predicción de cáncer de próstata en la biopsia transrectal.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the development of an artificial neural network (ANN) made up of clinical variables allows for the prediction of prostate biopsy (PB) outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients (n=953) underwent PB at the Arquitecto Marcide Hospital in Ferrol (Spain), between january 2000 and june 2005. The variables studied were age, PSA, digital rectal examination (DRE) and prostate volume, data for all of which were available in 843 cases. In order to determine factors related to prostate cancer (PC) diagnosis, a logistic regression analysis and a feed-forward neural network were developed, including three hidden layer nodes and an output node, representing the probability of PC. Both models were constructed from a random sample of n=643 patients (derivation set). The predictive capacity was assessed with the remaining 200 patients (validation set), by means of ROC curves and the area under the curve (AUC). RESULTS: PC was detected in 500 (59.3%) cases. Adjusting for age, PSA, digital rectal examination and prostate volume, in a multivariate logistic regression model it was observed that all the variables were independent predictors of PC. The AUC were 0.693 for PSA, 0.707 for prostate volume, 0.815 for logistic regression and 0.819 for ANN. The predictive capacity of the ANN was significantly higher than that of the PSA (p=0.002) and prostate volume (p<0,001) and similar to that of logistic regression (p=0.760). CONCLUSIONS: The ANN shows a PC prediction capacity that is significantly higher than unimodal diagnosis methods, and similar to that of logistic regression.